aquatics pool safety plan services/documents... · 2020. 8. 28. · occupancy limits – pool...

AQUATICS POOL SAFETY PLAN

Prince George Aquatic Centre Four Seasons Leisure Pool

COVID-19 Safe Operations

Table of Contents – COVID-19 Procedures

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COVID-19 General Information ....................................................................................... 5

Staff Training Plan ........................................................................................................... 6

Staff Health and Hygiene ................................................................................................ 7

Facility Admission & Access .......................................................................................... 11

Occupancy Limits – Dry Spaces ................................................................................... 13

Occupancy Limits – Pool Spaces .................................................................................. 14

Disinfection Procedures ................................................................................................ 15

Aquatic Programming .................................................................................................... 20

Safety Education & Rule Enforcement Guidelines ........................................................ 23

Lifeguard Rescue-Ready Assessments ........................................................................ 24

Lifeguard Safety Supervision Zones.............................................................................. 25

Lifeguard Personal Protective Equipment ..................................................................... 29

First Aid Procedures ...................................................................................................... 31

Appendix A – Water Lilies Synchro Return to Sport Plan .............................................. 36

Appendix B – Barracuda Swim Club Return to Sport Plan ............................................ 36

Appendix C – Pisces Swim Club Return to Sport Plan .................................................. 36

Appendix D – Special O Swim Club Return to Sport Plan ............................................. 36

References .................................................................................................................... 37

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COVID-19 General Information Category: COVID-19 Procedures Approved by: Aquatic Manager: May 2020 Revised: Procedure

What is COVID-19?1 COVID-19 is a respiratory infection caused by a newly identified virus (SARS-CoV-2). The infection has symptoms similar to other respiratory illnesses, including the flu and common cold: cough, sneezing, fever, sore throat, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms can include fatigue, muscle aches, diarrhea, headache, or lost sense of smell.

While most people infected with COVID-19 experience only mild illness, severe illness can occur in some pools, especially in those with weaker immune systems, the elderly, and those with chronic medical conditions.

How COVID-19 Spreads2 COVID-19 is spread through liquid droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus in these droplets can enter the body directly through the eyes, nose, or mouth of another person if they are in close contact with the person who coughed or sneezed. COVID-19 is not transmitted through viral particles floating in the air and is not something that can enter the body through the skin.

1 (Regional Health Authorities, Ministry of Health, and BC Centre for Disease Control, 2020) 2 (Regional Health Authorities, Ministry of Health, and BC Centre for Disease Control, 2020)

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Staff Training Plan Category: COVID-19 Procedures Approved by: Aquatic Manager: May 2020 Revised: Procedure

Online Staff Training The City of Prince George designed a blended learning staff training to re-activate staff prior to returning to work in Aquatics. Online Training Topics – www.princegeorgeaquatics.thinkific.com

- Session 1: Staff Health and Hygiene (All staff) - Session 2: Facility Admission & Access (All staff) - Session 3: Aquatic Programming (All staff) - Session 4: Disinfection Procedures (All staff) - Session 5: Public Safety Education (All staff) - Session 6: Rescue-Ready Assessment (Lifeguards only) - Session 7: Safety Supervision Zones (Lifeguards only) - Session 8: Lifeguard Personal Protective Equipment (Lifeguards only) - Session 9: First Aid Procedures (Lifeguards only) - Session 10: Staff Awards (Lifeguards only)

In-Person Training Topics

1. Airway Management and Oxygen Administration (Lifeguards only) 2. Rescue-Ready Assessment (Lifeguards only) 3. Personal Protective Equipment (All staff) 4. First Aid Procedures (Lifeguards only) 5. Cleaning Procedures (All staff) 6. Front Desk Procedures (Cashiers and Head Guards only)

All training must be documented and signed by both staff member and supervisor.

http://www.princegeorgeaquatics.thinkific.com/

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Staff Health and Hygiene Category: COVID-19 Procedures Approved by: Aquatic Manager: May 2020 Revised: August 2020 (KK) Procedure

COVID-19 Health Assessment To avoid transmission between employees and bathers, every employee suspected or confirmed to have contracted COVID-19 must stay home.3 Staff are required to sign a declaration that they are symptom free at the start of their shift. A binder will be kept in the Guard Room at the Aquatic Centre containing the document to sign. Staff COVID-19 Self-Assessment4 Any employee experiencing:

• Fever • Fatigue • Chills • Diarrhea • Cough or worsening chronic cough • Loss of appetite • Shortness of breath • Nausea • Sore throat • Vomiting • Runny nose • Muscle aches • Loss of sense of smell or taste • Stuffy nose • Headache • Pink eye • Dizziness • Confusion • Abdominal pain • Skin rashes or discoloration of

fingers or toes must stay home from work and start to self-isolate immediately. Contact the Northern Health COVID-19 Information line at 1-844-645-7811 for advice. Follow the advice you receive and inform your supervisor. Supervisors are required to follow a script in the event that you call in sick for work. This initial call may take longer than normal. Additional return to work checklists may need to be completed upon return to work. It is likely that you will be required to self-isolate at home for a minimum of ten days from the onset of these symptoms and to stay home until these symptoms are completely resolved. If you are advised to be tested for COVID-19 and your test result is

3 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 5 4 (City of Prince George, 2020)

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negative, you must continue to isolate until your symptoms are resolved. Should a positive test result occur, Northern Health will advise of next steps.

Sick Workers • Employees who start to experience symptoms while at work are to:

o Immediately don a face mask o Notify their supervisor o Self-isolate, go home and contact the Northern Health COVID-19

Information line at 1-844-645-7811 for advice. • Areas touched or occupied by sick staff while at work must be disinfected

immediately. • Daily records are kept of staff who work together in the event there is a need for

contact tracing on the part of the Medical Health Officer. • If staff are confirmed to be COVID-19 positive, management will call

Northern Health and follow protocols given (i.e. potential facility closure for additional cleaning).

Hygiene Hand Hygiene5 Employees must wash their hands upon entry to the building and before and after:

• Eating • Breaks • Smoking • Blowing one’s nose, coughing, or sneezing • Using the toilet • Being in contact with animals or pets • Using shared equipment • Providing routine care for customers needing assistance or first aid

Face Masks6 7

• Aquatics will provide disposable 3-layered surgical masks for staff procedures. • Staff should wear face masks if physical distancing cannot be maintained with

other staff members or public. • At this time, wearing a face mask at all times in the facility is not mandatory with

the exception that a mask is to be worn in the change rooms and change room corridors. This will be updated according to provincial health recommendations.

• Masks can become contaminated on the outside when touched by hands so employees should avoid touching or adjusting them often.

5 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 5 6 (WorkSafe BC, 2020) 7 (Northern Health, 2020)

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• Masks that become wet, soiled, or damaged are less effective and must be replaced immediately.

• Masks must be put on and taken off correctly, including not touching the front of the mask and washing hands before/after application and removal.

• Never share masks with others. Personal Hygiene8

• Avoid physical greetings such as handshakes and hugs. • Employees must practice good hygiene throughout their shift including proper

hand washing and cough/sneeze etiquette. • There should be no sharing of cigarettes or vaping equipment.

8 (Northern Health, 2020)

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Keeping Shared Spaces & Equipment Clean

Shared Staff Change Rooms9 • Staff should arrive dressed in their uniform. • Maximum occupancy limits are posted on the staff change rooms. Physical

distancing must occur at all times (mask required if not alone). • Personal items brought in (e.g. bags, shoes, jackets) must be kept to a minimum. • If personal items are in the change room, adequate space must be between each

staff member’s items to encourage physical distancing. • All belongings must be brought home at the end of each shift. • Lockers must be emptied and disinfected at the end of each shift.

Shared Equipment10

• Equipment and tools must not be shared between employees (PPE, fanny packs, whistles, keys, etc.).

• Lifeguards should only use one rescue tube per shift. Disinfect the rescue tube before and after the shift. If a rescue tube must be shared, it must be disinfected between uses.

• Clean staff room table before and after each use. • Do not share cups, glasses, or utensils. • Avoid sharing common objects (e.g. pens). • Uniforms should be washed at home at the end of each shift.

.

9 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 6 10 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 6

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Facility Admission & Access Category: COVID-19 Procedures Approved by: Aquatic Manager: May 2020 Revised: Procedure

Facility Admission11 12 Prince George Aquatics is implementing the following facility admission protocols:

1. At the entrance, signs are installed to inform patrons that: a. Patrons must not enter if they suspect they have COVID-19 or if they have

any of the known COVID-19 symptoms. b. Patrons must maintain physical distance of 2 metres from other patrons

and staff (not relevant when providing close supervision of children for whom one is responsible13).

c. On arrival, patrons must wash their hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.

d. Avoid aquatic facilities if patrons are at high-risk of COVID-19 contraction or illness.

2. Patrons are required to arrive in their bathing suit to limit time spent in the change rooms.

3. Employees located at the front desk are protected by a Plexiglas barrier. Employees should wear gloves while handling cash, locker tokens etc.

4. Patrons must self-apply wristbands if required by age/swimming ability. 5. A reservation system and swim time limitations are in place to avoid crowd

gatherings, wait times and basic contact information for tracing on the part of the Medical Health Officer.

6. Occupancy limit of 40 public and up to 10 staff.14 7. Personal face masks are required in the corridors leading to and from the change

rooms and while in the change rooms where physical distancing is limited. Face masks are to be stored on-deck in lockers/cubbies and not worn while swimming. Staff will provide masks for customers should they not have their own.

11 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 7 12 (Northern Health, 2020) 13 (Regional Health Authorities, Ministry of Health, and BC Centre for Disease Control, 2020) 14 (WorkSafe BC, 2020)

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Facility Access15 1. Facility access is provided with separate entry and exit points at the main

entrance with a barrier ensuring physical distancing. 2. Signage, floor markings and barriers are installed to guide patrons in and out of

the building. 3. Physical markers are installed on the lobby floor which indicate two metre

physical distancing for patrons waiting in line. 4. Signage and barriers are installed in the change rooms to encourage physical

distancing. 5. Lockers are spaced out to encourage physical distancing. 6. Occupancy limits posted for all public and staff spaces. 7. Staff visitors are prohibited. 8. Staff must leave the building immediately after their shift ends.

Facility Signage • Maximum Occupancy: 50 People • Do not enter if you are sick or required to self-isolate • Physical Distancing in progress of 2 arms lengths from others (2 metres) • Wash hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer upon entry • Wear a bathing suit prior to coming to the pool to limit time spent in the change

rooms • Do not share personal items • Wearing goggles in the water is encouraged • Personal pool equipment is prohibited • Do not spit, urinate, or blow your nose in the water • Personal face masks are required in the corridors leading to and from the change

rooms and while in the change rooms where physical distancing is limited Face masks are to be stored on-deck in lockers/cubbies and not worn while swimming

• Shower before and after using the pool. • Follow directions provided from Aquatic staff and posted rules

15 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 8

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Occupancy Limits – Dry Spaces

Public Spaces Maximum Occupancy

Men’s Change Room 8

Women’s Change Room 9

Universal Washrooms (2) 1

Men’s Public Washroom 1

Women’s Public Washroom 2

Northwood Room 8

Weight Room Closed

Proshop 2

Staff Spaces Maximum Occupancy*

Maintenance Rooms (2) 1

Front Desk 2

Offices (3) 1

First Aid Room 1

Guard Room 3

Lunch Room 2

Men’s Staff Change Room 2

Women’s Staff Change Room 3

Guard Tub 1

Main Storage Room 3

Wave Storage Room 2

Deck Storage Rooms 1

Timing Room 2 *Staff spaces can have higher occupancy if a surgical mask is worn where 2m physical distancing cannot be maintained

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Occupancy Limits – Pool Spaces

Pool Spaces Maximum Occupancy

Main Pool (Adult/Senior Swim Set-up) 34

Main Pool (Everyone Welcome Set-up) 34

Main Pool (Swim Club Set-up) 40

Wave Pool 35 (1 max in the river)

Hot Tub 3

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Disinfection Procedures Category: COVID-19 Procedures Approved by: Aquatic Manager: May 2020 Revised: Procedure The disinfection procedures listed are in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. These cleaning measures are in addition to regular facility cleaning procedures which are located in Section 4 of the Pool Safety Plan.

Personal Protection16 The risk of exposure to cleaning staff is inherently low, however cleaning staff should wear disposable gloves and appropriate PPE for all cleaning tasks, including handling trash. PPE should be removed carefully to avoid contamination of the wearer and surrounding area. Work uniforms should be washed after each shift.

Cleaning Procedures17 18 Surfaces frequently touched by hands are most likely to be contaminated. These include doorknobs, handrails, light switches, cabinet handles, faucet handles, tables, countertops, and electronics. These areas are high priority cleaning areas within the facility. Lockers and cubbies used by pool patrons/employees to store personal belongings are cleaned and disinfected between uses. Prince George Aquatics has created a detailed cleaning log which includes where, what, and how often cleaning is occurring. Log sheets and procedures are posted in the lobby maintenance room and are completed/signed off each time cleaning occurs. Cleaning occurs in the change rooms every hour and cleaning/disinfection occurs during the designated cleaning blocks throughout the operational day/after-hours. Cleaning/disinfection occurs after every 2-2.5 hour swim session.

16 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), p. 49-51 17 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), p. 49-51 18 (Northern Health, 2020)

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Chemicals Used for Disinfection/Cleaning

Product Application Who can Use PPE Dwell Time Rinse Mop/Bucket Colour

Daily Dual Disinfectant

Mop, trigger spray bottle, auto

scrubber, pump sprayer

Maintenance (all methods),

Lifeguards (trigger bottles, mop only)

Goggles, gloves 10 minutes Rinse with water after 10 minutes Blue bucket

Sanibet Multi-Range

(Disinfectant, Sanitizer,

Deodorizer)

Mop, trigger spray, pump sprayer,

backpack

Lifeguards (spray bottles only);

Maintenance (all methods)

Staff – Gloves, goggles 10 minutes Optional N/A

Velocity (Degreaser, Deodorizer)

Mop, trigger spray bottle Maintenance Safety glasses,

gloves 3-5 minutes Remove

thoroughly after applied

Yellow bucket

Green Earth Glass Cleaner Trigger spray bottle Maintenance,

lifeguards Goggles, gloves Not needed Not needed N/A

Green Earth Restroom Cleaner

Pump sprayer, trigger spray bottle Maintenance Safety glasses,

gloves 4-6 minutes Remove

thoroughly after applied

N/A

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Assignment of Tasks for Day Time Block Cleaning/Disinfection

WET SPACES Maintenance Staff – Back Pack Sprayer Equipment: Back Pack Product: Sanibet PPE: Gloves, full-face respirator, long-sleeve shirt. Notes: Ensure backpack is sanitized before and after use. It is important that only one person uses the backpack to reduce risk of exposure to COVID-19. Family Change Rooms

1. Spray down showers, benches, change tables, walls (up to eye height), lockers (outsides), doors, and garbage bins.

Public Washrooms 1. Spray down walls (up to eye height), sinks, toilet, doors, garbage bins, grab bars.

Avoid wall receptacles (plug-ins). Women/Men’s Change Rooms

1. Spray down showers, lockers (outsides), benches, partition walls, and toilets, urinals, garbage bins.

Lifeguard #1 (Family Change Room) Equipment: Mop bucket (Blue),Trigger sprayer bottles and assigned colored cloths Product: Daily Dual Disinfectant, GE Glass Cleaner, Sanibet PPE: Gloves, goggles Notes: Sanitize the spray bottles before and after use. Family Change Rooms

1. (Daily Dual Disinfectant) Mop family change rooms. 2. (Sanibet) Spray all touch points, insides of lockers. 3. (Daily Dual Disinfectant) If sinks, toilets in the universal washroom, etc. are

visibly soiled, spray with DDD and wipe off with cloth. 4. (GE Glass Cleaner) Clean mirrors. 5. Change garbage bags if full. Stock paper and soap products as needed. 6. Sign off on the cleaning checklist in the Lobby Maintenance Room.

.

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Lifeguard #2 (Women’s Change Room) Equipment: Mop bucket (Blue),Trigger sprayer bottles and assigned colored cloths Product: Daily Dual Disinfectant, GE Glass Cleaner, Sanibet PPE: Gloves, goggles Notes: Sanitize the spray bottles before and after use. Women’s Change Room

1. (Daily Dual Disinfectant) Mop change room. 2. (Sanibet) Spray all touch points, insides of lockers. 3. (Daily Dual Disinfectant) If sinks, toilets, etc. are visibly soiled, spray with DDD

and wipe off with cloth. 4. (GE Glass Cleaner) Clean mirrors. 5. Change garbage bags if full. Stock paper and soap products as needed. 6. Sign off on the cleaning checklist in the Lobby Maintenance Room.

Lifeguard #3 (Men’s Change Room) Equipment: Mop bucket (Blue),Trigger sprayer bottles and assigned colored cloths Product: Daily Dual Disinfectant, GE Glass Cleaner, Sanibet PPE: Gloves, goggles Notes: Sanitize the spray bottles before and after use. Men’s Change Room

1. (Daily Dual Disinfectant) Mop change room. 2. (Sanibet) Spray all touch points, insides of lockers. 3. (Daily Dual Disinfectant) If sinks, toilets in the universal washroom, etc. are

visibly soiled, spray with DDD and wipe off with cloth. 4. (GE Glass Cleaner) Clean mirrors. 5. Change garbage bags if full. Stock paper and soap products as needed. 6. Sign off on the cleaning checklist in the Lobby Maintenance Room.

Lifeguard #4 (Pool Deck) Equipment: Trigger sprayer bottles Product: Sanibet, Daily Dual Disinfectant PPE: Gloves, goggles Notes: Sanitize the spray bottles before and after use. Pool Deck Touch Points

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• (Sanibet) Clean all touch points: guard tub, ladders, railings, flag poles, bleachers, garbage bins, door handles, diving board railings, water fill station, storage room door handles.

• (Sanibet) Spray cubbies and lifejacket hooks

Cashier Equipment: Trigger sprayer bottle Product: Sanibet, Lysol wipes, GE Glass Cleaner PPE: Gloves, goggles Notes: Sanitize the spray bottles before and after use. Administrative Areas (Front Desk and Guard Room)

• Clean computer keyboards, moneris machines, computer screens, all touch points, phones, computer mice, scan station

• Clean touch points in lobby • Clean plexi-glass barriers

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Aquatic Programming Category: COVID-19 Procedures Approved by: Aquatic Manager: May 2020 Revised: Procedure

General19 1. Bather loads are reduced to allow appropriate physical distancing. 2. Signage installed at the entrance to inform patrons that:

a. Users should not spit, urinate, or blow their nose in the water. b. People at higher risk of COVID-19 should not participate in programmed

activities. c. Patrons should not share water bottles, towels, goggles, or any other

equipment. d. Water bottles should be filled at home. e. The use of goggles is encouraged to avoid mucus contamination.

Patron Equipment20 1. There is no current evidence that COVID-19 survives in chlorinated pool water.21

There are no special disinfection procedures to put in place for equipment that is regularly in contact with chlorinated water.

2. Personal pool equipment is prohibited.

Aquatic Programs22 All aquatic programs are cancelled until further notice:

• Swimming lessons • Aquafit • Birthday parties • Leadership courses

Programs will resume in accordance with provincial health recommendations.

Swim Club Rentals Swim club staff (coaches, admin, etc.) are required to complete a COVID-19 orientation with the Aquatic Programmer prior to booking the facility. Swim clubs are responsible for following the guidelines listed in the City of Prince George’s COVID-19 Safety Plan, as well as their own Return to Sport Safety Plan (see Appendices).

19 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 12 20 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 12 21 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 51 22 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 14-15

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Public Swim Schedule • Prince George Aquatics is offering an alternate swim schedule to limit the

number of patrons in the building to 40 during a swim session. • Booking is done either online or over the phone through PerfectMind registration

software. • Aquatics will retain all basic contact information of group attendees in the event

that there is a need for COVID-19 contact tracing on the part of the Medical Health officer.

Lane/Lap Swimming23 To maintain physical distancing of 2 metres, a maximum of (1) person in a single lane or a maximum of (5) people in a double lane.

23 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), p. 12

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Aquatic Amenities

Diving Boards24 • Floor markings installed to indicate physical distancing measures for line-ups. • Clean all touch points as usual.

Sauna/Steam Room25

• Saunas and steam rooms present a higher risk of COVID-19 transmission due to: o Design makes it more difficult to maintain appropriate physical distancing. o Challenging surfaces to keep clean and disinfected. o Potential for COVID-19 to be spread when patrons touch common

surfaces. • The sauna and steam room will remain closed until further notice.

Hot Tub26

• Reduced bather load (maximum 3 patrons) to encourage physical distancing. Water Features Water features will be assessed per swim and closed if needed to encourage physical distancing.

• Waves turned off to encourage physical distancing

24 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 10 25 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 11 26 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 11

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Safety Education & Rule Enforcement Guidelines Category: COVID-19 Procedures Approved by: Aquatic Manager: May 2020 Revised: Procedure

Safety Education and Rule Enforcement27 • When providing information to customers about new rules and COVID-19

guidelines, it is important for staff to remember that not all customers may be initially accepting of the new protocols.

• Aquatic staff should be patient and take a customer-focused approach to safety education. We’re Here to Help!

• When possible, lifeguards should maintain physical distancing while providing effective and consistent rule enforcement and accident prevention.

• Lifeguard staff performing safety supervision should not be engaged in any other activity.

Applying the Guidelines28 1. Prior to entering the facility, educate the public on new admission standards

using signage, including health questions and their responsibilities regarding physical distancing from non-family members for all activities and while using all facility amenities.

2. Educate patrons concerning one-way traffic measures around the facility. 3. Educate patrons on measures put in place to avoid crowd gathering such as

waiting lines for recreational equipment. 4. Educate patrons about not sharing personal equipment such as water bottles,

towels, goggles, etc. 5. Lifeguards should maintain physical distancing while providing effective and

consistent rule enforcement and accident prevention. 6. Lifeguards should maintain physical distancing when providing information to

other team members. 7. Aquatic staff should follow and maintain new protocols regarding disinfection of

common contact surfaces throughout the day.

27 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 41 28 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 41

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Lifeguard Rescue-Ready Assessments Category: COVID-19 Procedures Approved by: Aquatic Manager: May 2020 Revised: Procedure

Rationale29 After an extended period of absence from work, aquatic staff must be ready to provide effective safety supervision and demonstrate competency in rescue techniques. A rescue-ready assessment does not replace the need for a National Lifeguard Pool Option recertification or a Standard First Aid/CPR-C/AED recertification. Rescue-Ready Assessments:

1. Object recovery: starting in the water, swim 15m and surface dive to recover a 20lb object; surface and carry object 5m.

2. Demonstrate anaerobic fitness: starting in the water, swim 50m head-up. 3. Demonstrate effective management of a distressed or drowning victim (using a

training manikin) in deep water. 4. Demonstrate effective management of a submerged, non-breathing victim (using

a training manikin) and perform 10 cycles of CPR on a CPR manikin. 5. Demonstrate endurance and strength: starting in the water, swim to recover a

submerged manikin located 25m away; carry the manikin 25m. 6. Demonstrate effective management of a suspected spinal-injured victim: Enter

and approach a face-down victim (using a training manikin), roll victim over, immobilize and carry 15m.

*All assessments signed off by employee and supervisor.

29 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 36-37

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Lifeguard Safety Supervision Zones Category: COVID-19 Procedures Approved by: Aquatic Manager: May 2020 Revised: Procedure Lifeguard Zones (2 & 1)

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Adult and Senior Swim Set-up

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Swim Club Set-up

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Everyone Welcome Set-up

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Lifeguard Personal Protective Equipment Category: COVID-19 Procedures Approved by: Aquatic Manager: May 2020 Revised: Procedure

Types of PPE used for First Aid30 1. Surgical mask (3-layered): Reduces transmission of aerosol by 50% and

protects from contracting aerosol route infection from others by 75-80%. Surgical masks must be dry to be effective.

a. Masks and face coverings are prohibited in the water. 2. Eye protection: Face shields or personal protective goggles prevent virus

exposure of the eye mucosa. Protective goggles must fit the user’s facial features and be compatible with respiratory protection. Eye protection may be re-used once disinfected.

a. Corrective eye lenses are not approved PPE and should not be used for first aid purposes.

3. Body protection: Long-sleeved water-resistant gowns should be used when performing high-risk first aid treatment. Practice personal hygiene following use.

4. Bag-Valve-Mask (BVM) with viral filter: The viral filter or high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter minimizes the risk of the virus spreading during ventilations. Viral filters must remain in their original packaging and remain dry to be effective.

5. Most PPE is required to remain dry to be effective.

30 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 43-44

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When to use Personal Protective Equipment for First Aid

Keeping PPE Dry and Organized31 • Each lifeguard will have first contact PPE on their person including gloves and (2)

surgical masks. The gloves and surgical masks must be kept in a re-sealable bag to avoid getting wet.

• Each focal point will have a dry storage container that includes PPE for (3) rescuers, (1) victim, along with resuscitation equipment (BVM with viral filter), hand sanitizer and disinfection wipes.

• Lifeguards will also have small bottles of hand sanitizer on their person as well as a pen for personal use.


DIRECT CONTACT

LOW RISK (Non-aerosol generating)

2m physical distancing not maintained

HIGH RISK (Aerosol generating) Chest compressions, ventilations, oxygen administration, abdominal

thrusts, back blows 2m physical distancing not maintained

Lifeguard • Sealed safety

glasses • Safety goggles (if

user wears corrective eye-glasses)

• Surgical Mask • Gloves Victim • Surgical Mask if

tolerated

Lifeguard • Isolation gown • Sealed safety glasses • Safety goggles (if user wears corrective eye-glasses) • Surgical Mask • Gloves Victim • BVM with viral filter & continuous seal maintained (CPR) • Cloth covering the victim’s mouth/nose (Compression-only

CPR) or other treatment • For CPR, mouth/nose must be covered at all times (sealed

BVM or cloth)

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First Aid Procedures Category: COVID-19 Procedures Approved by: Aquatic Manager: May 2020 Revised: Procedure

Close Supervision and Emergency Situations32 Physical distancing in an aquatic environment is not relevant under the following circumstances:

• When providing close supervision of children for whom one is responsible. • When providing assistance to a person in distress. • When providing first aid, or carrying out lifesaving activities. • When providing assistance to those with disabilities.

General First Aid Protocols • Universal approach – assume all victims are COVID-19 positive.33 • For all rescues, minimize the number of rescuers who have contact with the

victim.34 • For in-water rescues, avoid face-to-face proximity with the victim and other

rescuers.35 • At each focal point, provide a dry container including hand sanitizer and PPE for

(3) rescuers, (1) victim. • Post rescue (resuscitation or first aid with bodily fluids): Hand hygiene, shower,

change clothes, bag clothes to be washed, disinfect first aid equipment.28

Respiratory Hygiene Measures36 • Educate all victims to cover their mouth and nose with tissue or elbow when

coughing or sneezing. • Medical masks are available for lifeguards and public when performing first aid. • Victims who require resuscitation should have a mask covering their mouth/nose

or a continuous BVM seal for CPR.

32 (Regional Health Authorities, Ministry of Health, and BC Centre for Disease Control, 2020) 33 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 33 34 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 30, 38 35 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 38 36 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 39

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Use of Oxygen37 • The use of high-flow oxygen is considered high-risk as it generates aerosols and

therefore should only be reserved for: o Victims requiring resuscitation (CPR) o Children and infant victims (pulse oximetry of less than 94%) o Drowning victims

First Aid for Children/Minors38 • When possible, ask parents or caregivers to provide first aid to children or

minors. • Provide the parent or caregiver with PPE appropriate for the injury. • Provide guidance to the parent or caregiver performing first aid.

Scene Assessment39 1. Ensure scene is safe. 2. Assume universal approach – all victims COVID-19 positive. 3. Minimize the number of rescuers in contact with the victim. 4. 2m physical distancing at all times. 5. Don appropriate PPE (self, victim, bystander) 6. Victim history – COVID-19 7. Mechanism of injury 8. Continuous and dynamic scene assessment

Scene Assessment Guidelines

• Maintain physical distancing of 2m whenever possible. • Collect information about the health status of the victim with regards to COVID-

19: o It is important to pass this information on to EMS, allowing them to provide

optimal treatment to the victim. o This information may be obtained from the victim, the victim’s caregiver, or

bystander. o Determining the victim’s health status and COVID-19 infection can be

accomplished by asking common questions.

37 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 43 38 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 39 39 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 42; Appendix B

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Primary Assessment32 ** Conscious victims should self-examine where possible

1. Level of consciousness 2. Call EMS (if life-threatening illness found) 3. Secure airway 4. Check breathing 5. Check circulation 6. Treat for shock and prepare for transport if appropriate

Primary Assessment Guidelines

• Maintain physical distancing of 2m whenever possible. • Determine if the victim’s condition requires the lifeguard to make direct contact

with the victim. o Alternate options may include a victim’s caregiver or family member

administering first aid with lifeguard direction for minor injuries. o Don the PPE required for the level of victim contact and first aid treatment.

Both the rescuer and victim should don PPE. • When the victim history indicated positive or suspected COVID-19, inform EMS. • Proper hand hygiene is important after all first aid treatment.

Secondary Assessment32 *Conscious victims should self-examine where possible

1. Vital signs* 2. History 3. Head-to-toe exam (verbal exam for conscious victims)

Secondary Assessment Guidelines

• Maintain physical distancing (2m) whenever possible. • *Only take vital signs that can be observed from a distance (i.e. skin colour,

visual breathing check) or those required for victim treatment decisions (i.e. skin temperate on a possible heat stroke victim)

Post-Rescue Procedures32 1. Take care to remove and dispose of PPE in a safe manner. 2. Disinfect all surfaces that may have come in contact with the victim or rescuer

during treatment (chair, pen, clipboard, etc.). 3. Practice hand hygiene and disinfection if required.

COVID-19 |

Guidelines for in-Water Rescue40 1. Prior to entering the water, the rescuer should remove any face coverings being

worn. 2. Approach the victim in a manner to avoid face-to-face proximity. 3. Minimize the number of rescuers who have direct contact with the victim. 4. Where possible, designate a rescuer to take the lead during first aid and

resuscitation. This allows in-water rescuers to dry off and don PPE before continuing victim care.

5. After each rescue, all rescuers should practice hand hygiene, shower with soap, change their clothes, and bag their clothes worn during the rescue to be washed.

6. Disinfect all rescue equipment used.

Resuscitation (CPR) Guidelines41 1. In-water assessments should not be performed. 2. In-water rescue breathing should not be performed. 3. Pocket masks should not be used. Bag-valve-masks with viral filter are the

preferred ventilation device. 4. PPE must be donned prior to resuscitation efforts. 5. The victim’s mouth/nose must be covered (cloth or sealed BVM mask).

Bag-Valve Mask Guidelines

• The device has three main components (bag, one-way valve, mask). • The bag is self-inflating. Once the bag is compressed, it re-inflates automatically. • The one-way valve allows air to move from the bag to the victim, but prevents the

victim’s exhaled air from entering the bag. • An oxygen reservoir should be attached and inflated. • A HEPA viral filter should be attached and must remain dry to be effective. • Two-rescuer BVM technique is preferred, since one rescuer is free to use two

hands to hold the mask, while the other performs ventilations. • If the one-rescuer BVM technique is used, an OPA must be inserted. • Rescuers responding alone or with delayed back-up would perform compression-

only CPR until the BVM arrives. • A continuous seal must be applied to protect from airborne pathogens. If a

continuous BVM seal is not applied, a mask must be covering the victim’s mouth/nose.

40 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), Appendix B 41 (Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon, 2020), pg. 29-30

COVID-19 |

CPR/AED Training • The bag-valve-mask replaces the pocket mask in CPR-C training. Two-rescuers

(1 compressor, 1 ventilator) at a minimum are required for CPR with ventilations. • Aquatics staff will continue using the same training protocols provided in the

CPR-C/AED course. • Compressions and AED would take priority over application of a BVM. • The bag-valve-mask is a supplementary training item as a response to the

COVID-19 pandemic. • OPA’s must be used when using a bag-valve-mask. • Training in the use of a bag-valve mask does not certify staff in CPR-HCP or BLS

responder. • CPR-C/AED award must remain current.

Examples of how First Aid Guidelines are applied:42

Two Lifeguard Rescue

1. Lifeguard 1: Signals and enters water with rescue aid. 2. Lifeguard 2: Initiates clearing the water, provides backup and assists with

victim removal. Where backup is not needed in the water, Lifeguard 2 will don PPE.

3. All rescuers involved with victim care must dry off and don appropriate PPE prior to delivering first aid.

4. Provide surgical mask to victim during care. 5. If available, direct other facility staff to assist in complex rescues or to call

EMS. 6. Follow disinfection protocols post-rescue.

Three Lifeguard Rescue

1. Lifeguard 1: Signals and enters water with rescue aid. 2. Lifeguard 2: Initiates clearing the water, provides backup and assists with

victim removal. Where backup is not needed in the water, Lifeguard 2 will don PPE.

3. Lifeguard 3: Remain dry. Don PPE and initiate victim care. 4. Lifeguard 1 and 2 must dry off and don appropriate PPE prior to

delivering first aid. 5. Provide face mask to victim during care. 6. If available, direct other facility staff to assist in complex rescues or to call

EMS. 7. Follow disinfection protocols post-rescue.


COVID-19 |

Appendix A – Water Lilies Synchro Return to Sport Plan

Return to Sport.docx

Appendix B – Barracuda Swim Club Return to Sport Plan

Updated_Barracuda_Return_To_Swim_Pl

Appendix C – Pisces Swim Club Return to Sport Plan *To be added

Appendix D – Special O Swim Club Return to Sport Plan *To be added

COVID-19 |

References City of Prince George. (2020). COVID-19 Updates (FAQ). Retrieved from City Wide

Web: http://cww/Projects/COVID-19/Pages/default.aspx#ctl00_PlaceHolderMain_pnlCPGPageFAQ

Lifesaving Society BC & Yukon. (2020, 05). Guidelines for Reopening BC's Pools & Waterfronts. Burnaby: Lifesaving Society. Retrieved from http://www.lifesaving.bc.ca

Northern Health. (2020, 05 28). Northern Health COVID-19 Recommendations for Aquatic Facilities (Email communication with Tom Chen, Public Health Officer). British Columbia.

Regional Health Authorities, Ministry of Health, and BC Centre for Disease Control. (2020, May 29). Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19): Guidelines for Swimming Pools. 1. BC.

WorkSafe BC. (2020). COVID-19 Safety Plan.

aquatics pool safety plan services/documents... · 2020. 8. 28. · occupancy limits – pool...

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